10 Best Rolling Release Linux Distributions

Rolling release Linux distributions are a popular choice among Linux users who want to stay up-to-date with the latest software packages and features. These distributions have a continuous release cycle, which means that updates are delivered as soon as they are available. Unlike traditional release distributions, which have a fixed release cycle, rolling release distributions provide a more flexible and dynamic user experience.

In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best rolling release Linux distributions available today. We'll discuss their features, advantages, and disadvantages, and provide examples of each distribution.

What is a Rolling Release Linux Distribution?

A rolling release Linux distribution is a distribution that provides a continuous stream of updates and upgrades to the user. This means that there are no fixed release cycles or versions, and the user always has access to the latest software packages and features. Rolling release distributions are designed to be more dynamic and flexible than traditional release distributions, which have a fixed release cycle and provide updates only at certain intervals.

Advantages of Rolling Release Distributions

One of the biggest advantages of rolling release distributions is that they always provide the latest software packages and features. This is great for users who want to stay up-to-date with the latest technology and software, without having to wait for a new release or upgrade cycle. Rolling release distributions are also more stable than traditional release distributions, as updates are released gradually, rather than all at once. This means that users can benefit from bug fixes and security updates as soon as they are available.

Disadvantages of Rolling Release Distributions

One of the main disadvantages of rolling release distributions is that they can be less stable than traditional release distributions. This is because new updates and features are released as soon as they are available, without undergoing extensive testing. This can lead to bugs and compatibility issues with older software packages. Rolling release distributions are also less suitable for enterprise environments, as they require more frequent updates and maintenance.

Best Rolling Release Linux Distributions

Arch Linux

Arch Linux is one of the most popular rolling release Linux distributions, known for its simplicity and flexibility. It is a lightweight and customizable distribution, which allows users to install only the packages they need. Arch Linux uses a package manager called Pacman, which makes it easy to install, remove, and update software packages.

Arch Linux is also known for its robust documentation and active community. The Arch Wiki provides detailed information on how to install and configure the system, as well as troubleshooting tips and solutions for common issues. The Arch community is also very active and helpful, with many users providing support and advice on forums and mailing lists.

Manjaro Linux

Manjaro Linux is a user-friendly rolling release distribution based on Arch Linux. It is designed to be easy to use, with a graphical installer and pre-installed desktop environments. Manjaro Linux also includes many popular software packages, such as LibreOffice, Firefox, and GIMP.

Manjaro Linux is known for its stability and reliability, thanks to its careful testing and quality assurance process. The distribution also includes a tool called MHWD (Manjaro Hardware Detection), which makes it easy to install and configure hardware drivers.

Debian Testing

Debian Testing is the rolling release branch of the popular Debian Linux distribution. It provides access to the latest software packages and features, while still maintaining a high level of stability and reliability. Debian Testing is often used by developers and enthusiasts who want to stay up-to-date with the latest technology, without compromising on stability.

Debian Testing uses a package manager called APT (Advanced Package Tool), which makes it easy to install, remove, and update software packages. The distribution also includes a wide range of software packages, including popular desktop environments such as GNOME and KDE.

OpenSUSE Tumbleweed

OpenSUSE Tumbleweed is a rolling release Linux distribution based on the stable SUSE Linux Enterprise distribution. It is known for its excellent hardware support and user-friendly installer. OpenSUSE Tumbleweed includes the latest versions of popular software packages, such as LibreOffice, Firefox, and GIMP.

OpenSUSE Tumbleweed uses a package manager called Zypper, which makes it easy to install, remove, and update software packages. The distribution also includes a range of tools and utilities, such as YaST (Yet another Setup Tool), which makes it easy to configure system settings.

Solus

Solus is a rolling release Linux distribution that is known for its desktop-focused design and user-friendly interface. It includes a unique desktop environment called Budgie, which provides a modern and sleek user interface. Solus also includes many popular software packages, such as LibreOffice, Firefox, and GIMP.

Solus uses a package manager called eopkg, which makes it easy to install, remove, and update software packages. The distribution also includes a range of tools and utilities, such as a software center, which makes it easy to find and install new software.

Gentoo Linux

Gentoo Linux is a highly customizable rolling release distribution known for its flexibility and performance. It provides users with complete control over their system, allowing them to optimize it for their specific needs. Gentoo Linux uses a package manager called Portage, which compiles software packages from source code, allowing users to customize the installation process.

Gentoo Linux is known for its extensive documentation and active community. The Gentoo Wiki provides detailed information on how to install and configure the system, as well as how to customize it for specific use cases. The Gentoo community is also very active and helpful, with many users providing support and advice on forums and mailing lists.

Void Linux

Void Linux is a rolling release distribution known for its simplicity and minimalism. It provides a lightweight and customizable system, with a focus on performance and security. Void Linux uses a package manager called XBPS, which makes it easy to install, remove, and update software packages.

Void Linux is known for its excellent support for alternative architectures, such as ARM and PowerPC. It also includes a range of popular software packages, such as LibreOffice, Firefox, and GIMP. The distribution is designed to be easy to use, with a simple and intuitive command-line interface.

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS is a rolling release Linux distribution based on Arch Linux. It is designed to be user-friendly and easy to install, with a graphical installer and pre-installed desktop environments. EndeavourOS includes a curated selection of software packages, chosen for their quality and compatibility with the system.

EndeavourOS uses a package manager called Pacman, which makes it easy to install, remove, and update software packages. The distribution also includes a range of tools and utilities, such as a software center, which makes it easy to find and install new software. EndeavourOS has an active community, providing support and advice to users on forums and social media.

NixOS

NixOS is a unique rolling release Linux distribution that is based on a purely functional package management system. It provides a complete and reproducible system, with a focus on security and reliability. NixOS uses a package manager called Nix, which allows users to install multiple versions of software packages side-by-side, without conflicts.

NixOS is known for its excellent support for containerization and virtualization, making it a great choice for cloud and server environments. It also includes a range of popular software packages, such as LibreOffice, Firefox, and GIMP. The distribution is designed to be easy to use, with a declarative configuration language that makes it easy to manage system settings.

Conclusion

Rolling release Linux distributions provide a flexible and dynamic user experience, allowing users to always have access to the latest software packages and features. While there are some disadvantages to using rolling release distributions, such as the potential for instability and compatibility issues, many users find them to be a great choice for personal use.

Arch Linux, Manjaro Linux, Debian Testing, OpenSUSE Tumbleweed, and Solus are all great examples of rolling release Linux distributions, each with their own unique features and advantages. If you're interested in trying out a rolling release distribution, these are great options to consider.